GAME & ENTERTAINMENT – FILM, TV & CINEMA CALCULATOR
Film Aspect Ratio Bars
A precise tool.
What is the Film Aspect Ratio Bars & How does it work?
Letterboxing is used when a film’s native aspect ratio is wider than the display device. The excess vertical space is split evenly between a top and a bottom bar, preserving the intended composition without stretching the image.
To calculate the height of each bar you first determine the height the image would occupy on the screen if it were displayed at its original aspect ratio. Subtract this from the actual screen height and divide the remainder by two.
This simple arithmetic lets editors and broadcasters quickly gauge how much of the screen will be obscured, ensuring consistent visual presentation across different display formats.
h_{bar}=\frac{H_{screen}-\frac{W_{screen}}{R}}{2}
h_{bar} = height of each letterbox bar (px)
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the height of each letterboxing bar?
First, determine the image height at its original aspect ratio. Subtract this from the screen height and divide by two.
What is letterboxing in film?
Letterboxing is a technique used to maintain the original aspect ratio of a widescreen film by adding black bars to the top and bottom of the frame.
How does this calculator help with video editing?
It helps editors determine the correct size for letterboxing bars, preserving the intended composition without stretching the image.
Can I use this calculator for any screen size?
Yes, as long as you know the screen’s height and the film’s aspect ratio, you can calculate the appropriate bar heights.
What if my film has a different aspect ratio than widescreen?
This calculator is specifically for films with wider aspect ratios than your display. For other cases, the calculation method would differ.
How do I apply these bar heights in video editing software?
Enter the calculated height as the top and bottom padding or margin in your video editor’s settings.
Is there a formula to remember for calculating letterboxing bars?
Yes, subtract the image height at its aspect ratio from the screen height, then divide by two for each bar.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.